Japan Provides Shs1.3bn for Disaster Preparedness in Uganda

The Government of Japan has provided a grant of Shs1 billion 366 million (approximately US$ 391,917) to Uganda. The funds will be used to support Uganda’s Ministry of Health in addressing health and fire-related challenges throughout the country.

The grant, facilitated through Japan’s Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program, was formalized today at a signing ceremony held at the Embassy of Japan in Kampala. Mr. Yoshimura Tomotaka, Deputy Head of Mission of Japan to Uganda, signed the agreement alongside the Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Health, Dr Diana Atwine.

Dr Diana Atwine (L) the Health Ministry Permanent Secretary signed on behalf of Uganda

The funds will be utilized to provide 10 secondhand ambulances and 5 secondhand fire trucks from Japan. These vehicles will be deployed across 3 cities—Kampala, Jinja, and Masaka—and 8 districts, including Kapchorwa, Nebbi, Kalangala, Wakiso, Moyo, Luwero, Mpigi, and Kayunga. The aim is to strengthen Uganda’s capacity to effectively respond to health emergencies and fire outbreaks.

Since its inception in 1992, Japan’s GGP scheme has supported 287 community-based projects in Uganda, covering all regions of the country. The latest donation underscores Japan’s long-standing commitment to Uganda’s development through practical, grassroots interventions.

The ceremony took place at the Embassy of Japan in Kampala, and was attended by key officials from both Japan and Uganda, alongside media representatives invited to cover the event.

Senior police officers also attended the event including Fire and Rescue department boss, Stephen Tanui who pledged to make good use of the equipment.